BMW 135i: Redemption for Bavaria?

BMW fans will note that, as of late, their beloved Automobilen have been plagued by a tremendous problem: they’re hideous. Gone are the dashing good looks of the sleek M3 and the luxurious-yet-powerful 7-series. Those good looks have been replaced by a Honda Civic-esque 3-series and a new 7-series that’s… well… there’s really no description. It makes the ugly duckling feel like Gisele Bündchen.

That being said, BMW have also had a few problems in the technology department. Their iDrive feature is constantly ravaged by reviewers saying it is cumbersome and unnecessary. Despite flawed reviews, however, BMW is still the world’s best selling luxury brand.

A few years ago, the 1-series was laughable. It was nothing but a tiny hatchback, a reminder of why everyone who wants something speedy and economical ends up buying a VW Golf GTI.

But now, the 1-series has become something completely different: a coupé. Not only that, but it’s super-light body is powered by the same engine powering the 335i: BMW’s famous inline-6 with twin turbochargers. And that may be a very good combination.

That inline-6 produces 300bhp, and 300 lb/ft of torque at only 1,200 rpm. This jets the 135i from 0-60mph in just little over 5 seconds.

The 2008 model will be available with an optional M-Sport package that offers, primarily, sportier suspension, 18 inch wheels and a high-performance brake package utilizing 6 calipers on the front axle and two on the rear. The other features of the package are cosmetic, including a special soft-leather cover on the handbrake and shift knob, silver interior trim, and more “M” badges than you’ll know what to do with.

iDrive, ever present, has supposedly been improved upon according to sources at BMW. The active steering feature (optional) no longer “kills” the driving feel, as in previous iterations. The 135i will also sport a new DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) program, which promises to improve traction without impairing steering or the overall driving experience.

But perhaps the most important feature of the new 135i is thus: the aesthetics. It’s not ugly. In fact, I’d say it was the first BMW sporting their new front end that doesn’t look like it just washed up out of the sea. It doesn’t look like a Honda Civic, either, which is good, because that’s more than can be said of their new 3- and 5-series coupés.

Overall, the 135i going into production is very exciting news. It’s smaller than other BMW’s, which should make it cheaper, but above all, faster. It should be a blast to drive, and, for the first time in a few years with BMW… it’s a blast to look at.

Will this return BMW to former greatness in the eyes of enthusiasts?

Bring back the old 7-series body, and we’ll talk.

Image courtesy rsportscars.com.